A Pennsylvania jury has convicted a mother in the death of her adopted 5-year-old son after rejecting her claims that her husband was responsible for the abuse.
Jury Finds Mother Guilty
Lauren Maloberti, 36, was found guilty of:
- Third-degree murder
- Two counts of aggravated assault
- Child endangerment
- Conspiracy
The verdict was announced Thursday by the Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office.
She was found not guilty of first-degree murder.
Child Suffered Severe Injuries
Authorities said Landon Maloberti was taken unconscious to a hospital in January 2023 and died about a week later.
Investigators said the child suffered a catastrophic brain injury and more than 100 injuries across his body.
His death was ruled a homicide caused by blunt-force trauma.
Parents Blamed Each Other During Trial
Lauren Maloberti and her husband, Jacob Maloberti, each accused the other of abusing the child.
Jacob Maloberti testified that he believed his wife killed Landon without his knowledge.
Lauren Maloberti claimed her husband physically abused the boy and prevented her from getting medical help.
Text Messages Introduced as Evidence
Prosecutors presented text messages during the trial that allegedly suggested abuse had occurred months before the child’s death.
One message reportedly sent by Lauren Maloberti stated: “I just got done beating your son.”
Husband’s Case Still Pending
Jacob Maloberti faces separate charges including homicide, aggravated assault, conspiracy, and child endangerment.
Court records show his next hearing is scheduled for May 22.
Lauren Maloberti could face decades in prison at sentencing.
